Thorens TD 520 (1985–1999)

A 3-speed belt-drive turntable from Swiss maker Thorens, produced as a complete model and as a variant without a tonearm.

Overview

The Thorens TD 520 is a precision turntable made by the Swiss company Thorens between 1985 and 1999. It was a high-end, 3-speed belt-drive model, and it is considered a worthy successor to the classic TD-126 mkII. The TD 521 shares its lineage and was offered without a tonearm. A later version, the TD-520 MK2, is also documented. Thorens described it as a "precision instrument," and it was positioned as one of the company's most refined and versatile offerings during its production run.

Specifications

Product type	3-Speed Precision Belt-Drive Turntable
Drive system	1 step belt drive
Motor	low voltage 16-pole synchronous motor with slip clutch
Wow and flutter	0.035%
Rumble	72dB
Tonearm (standard model)	TP16 mkV L
Platter weight	seven pound turntable platter
Production years	1985 - 1999

Design

The TD 520 uses a more massive version of Thorens' twin solid core chassis design. The construction is intended to minimize vibration, and it contributes to the low wow and flutter and rumble figures. Mechanical stability and long-term performance were the goals.

Context

The TD 520 succeeded the TD-126 mkII and was part of an elite line that included the TD 521 and TD 524. Thorens positioned it as one of its most refined and versatile record players. The TD 521 was the version without a tonearm, which gave high-end setups some flexibility.

Market

The TD 520 is described as very rare. Recent listings ask $1649 for complete units, sometimes including aftermarket cartridges. One noted user difficulty is the tonearm rest, which can be hard to remove. Aftermarket tonearm boards made of Corian and rosewood are available.